Should You Censor Carpool Conversations?

Get Peggy's advice on how to handle a carpool mom who chats about too-serious subject matter

My seventh-grade daughter is upset because one carpool mom talks about scary current events on the way to school. How do I get the mom to lighten up?

Start by letting her know how your daughter feels: "When Kelly hears about what's going on in the world these days, it sometimes scares her. Have you noticed anything like this with your daughter?" Then ask her if she would steer the conversations to more positive topics in the morning. Let her know how much you appreciate her help. If nothing changes, you might need to find another way to get your daughter to school.